This BC23 has been around for the last 18 years. Still working in perfect condition and back for upgrade to Level 1. I didn't want to believe it, we have units out there older than 18 years. That's why I am semi retiring............

Aside from the "semi-retirement" shock emanating from our fearless leader's proclamation, what can be said about the longevity of the BC electronics? I had a BC23 for 11 years without an issue and ON (yes) 24X7X365 - kinda tells you the care and design expertise that went into the "entry line" of BC electronics - what I could afford at the time. I then upgraded to the 705 board and last month, got my freshly painted 703 board installed. The BC23 has a very special place in my system - it is the only amp I have remaining from my "big" BC purchase in the year 2000. Congrats to the owner of this amp for getting that kind of mileage out of a damn good phono stage, and hope you enjoy the upgrade!!!

Well....now that the cat is out of the bag and Gilbert has uttered the 'semi retired' line, I just found out how many folks read this forum daily since my email just exploded.

Gilbert has decided that working 12 hour days, 7 days a week is not good for long term happiness.

Semi retired = Longer lead times

Semi retired does NOT = No support for new or older Blue Circle gear

Rest assured he isn't closing the doors anytime soon, just hanging a 'Gone for a long lunch" sign on a frequent basis. He's warned me that a long lunch could last up to 3 months at a time so be patient!